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Catholics in Nigeria have expressed optimism that newly elected Pope Leo XIV will uphold and expand on the progressive legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
During a modestly attended morning Mass at Holy Emmanuel Catholic Church in Karu, a working-class suburb of Abuja, the presiding priest began his sermon with reflections on the new pontiff’s appointment.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States, was elected on Thursday by the College of Cardinals at the Vatican, making history as the first American pope.
Kenneth Acha, head of the church council, voiced hope that the new pope would carry forward Pope Francis’s work, particularly in promoting global unity and strengthening the Catholic faith.
“I have confidence that Pope Leo XIV will continue to build bridges and work to unite a world in crisis,” Acha said.
Longtime parishioner Raymond Felix Okpe, 77, welcomed the swift election, suggesting it indicated wide support among cardinals. “The speed of the nomination shows Pope Leo is a popular choice,” he said.
Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass as pontiff on Friday at the Sistine Chapel in Rome. His chosen papal name is seen as a tribute to Pope Leo XIII, renowned for his advocacy of social justice.
Associate priest Ovie Joseph echoed the congregation’s sentiment, expressing belief that the new pope would carry forward Francis’s compassionate leadership. “We expect he will continue loving and caring for the people,” Joseph said.
